Solid state storage device controllers, solid state storage devices, and methods for operation of solid state storage device controllers are disclosed. In one such solid state storage device, the controller can operate in either an expansion DRAM mode or a non-volatile memory mode. In the DRAM expansion mode, one or more of the memory communication channels normally used to communicate with non-volatile memory devices is used to communicate with an expansion DRAM device.
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1. A solid state storage device comprising:
a memory device of a first type;
a first memory device of a second type different than the first type;
a second memory device of the second type;
a plurality of first communication channels, with a first portion of the plurality of first communication channels coupled to the memory device of the first type and a second portion of the plurality of first communication channels coupled to the first memory device of the second type;
a plurality of second communication channels separate from the plurality of first communication channels and coupled to the second memory device of the second type; and
a multiplexer coupled to receive output from a plurality of memory sequencers and to provide output of a selected one of the plurality of memory sequencers to the plurality of first communication channels, wherein the plurality of memory sequencers comprises a memory sequencer for memory devices of the first type and a memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type.
13. A solid state storage device comprising:
a memory device of a first type;
a first memory device of a second type different than the first type;
a second memory device of the second type;
a memory sequencer for memory devices of the first type;
a memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type;
a plurality of first communication channels, with a first portion of the plurality of first communication channels coupled to the memory device of the first type and a second portion of the plurality of first communication channels coupled to the first memory device of the second type;
a plurality of second communication channels separate from the plurality of first communication channels and coupled to provide output from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type to the second memory device of the second type; and
a multiplexer coupled to receive output from a plurality of memory sequencers and to provide output of a selected one of the plurality of memory sequencers to the plurality of first communication channels, wherein the plurality of memory sequencers comprises the memory sequencer for memory devices of the first type and the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type.
19. A solid state storage device comprising:
a memory device of a first type;
a first memory device of a second type different than the first type;
a second memory device of the second type;
a memory sequencer for memory devices of the first type;
a first memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type;
a second memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type;
a plurality of first communication channels, with a first portion of the plurality of first communication channels coupled to the memory device of the first type and a second portion of the plurality of first communication channels coupled to the first memory device of the second type;
a plurality of second communication channels separate from the plurality of first communication channels and coupled between the second memory device of the second type and the first memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type; and
a multiplexer coupled to receive output from a plurality of memory sequencers and to provide output of a selected one of the plurality of memory sequencers to the plurality of first communication channels, wherein the plurality of memory sequencers comprises the memory sequencer for memory devices of the first type and the second memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type.
2. The solid state storage device of
3. The solid state storage device of
4. The solid state storage device of
5. The solid state storage device of
wherein the second portion of the plurality of first communication channels is coupled to selectively receive data for the first memory device of the second type from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type;
wherein a first portion of the plurality of second communication channels is coupled to receive control signals for the first memory device of the second type and the second memory device of the second type from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type; and
wherein a second portion of the plurality of second communication channels is coupled to receive data for the second memory device of the second type from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type.
6. The solid state storage device of
7. The solid state storage device of
a second memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type;
wherein the plurality of second communication channels are coupled to receive control signals and data for the second memory device of the second type from the second memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type.
8. The solid state storage device of
wherein the second portion of the plurality of first communication channels is coupled to selectively receive control signals and data for the first memory device of the second type from the first memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type.
9. The solid state storage device of
10. The solid state storage device of
11. The solid state storage device of
12. The solid state storage device of
14. The solid state storage device of
15. The solid state storage device of
wherein the first memory device of the second type is coupled to receive control signals from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type through a first portion of the plurality of second communication channels, and to selectively receive data from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type through the second portion of the plurality of first communication channels; and
wherein the second memory device of the second type is coupled to receive control signals from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type through the first portion of the plurality of second communication channels, and to receive data from the memory sequencer for memory devices of the second type through a second portion of the plurality of second communication channels.
16. The solid state storage device of
17. The solid state storage device of
18. The solid state storage device of
20. The solid state storage device of
21. The solid state storage device of
22. The solid state storage device of
23. The solid state storage device of
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This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/482,517, titled “SOLID STATE STORAGE DEVICE CONTROLLER WITH EXPANSION MODE,” filed May 29, 2012 (allowed), which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/293,321, titled “SOLID STATE STORAGE DEVICE CONTROLLER WITH EXPANSION MODE,” filed Nov. 10, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,200,894, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/241,794, titled “SOLID STATE STORAGE DEVICE CONTROLLER WITH EXPANSION MODE,” filed Sep. 30, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,069,300, each of which is commonly assigned and incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention relates generally to memory devices and in a particular embodiment the present invention relates to non-volatile memory devices and dynamic random access memory devices.
Memory devices can include internal, semiconductor, integrated circuits in computers or other electronic devices. There are many different types of memory including random-access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), and non-volatile memory.
Non-volatile memory devices (e.g., flash memory) have developed into a popular source of non-volatile memory for a wide range of electronic applications. Flash memory devices typically use a one-transistor memory cell that allows for high memory densities, high reliability, and low power consumption. Common uses for flash memory include personal computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), digital cameras, and cellular telephones. Program code and system data such as a basic input/output system (BIOS) are typically stored in flash memory devices for use in personal computer systems.
Non-volatile memory devices are also incorporated into solid state storage devices such as solid state drives. Solid state drives can be used in computers to replace the hard disk drives that typically have used magnetic or optical disks for storing large amounts of data. A solid state drive does not use moving parts whereas a hard disk drive requires a complex and sensitive drive and read/write head assembly to interact with the magnetic/optical disk. Thus, the solid state drives are more resistant to damage and loss of data through vibration and impacts.
One drawback to current solid state drive technology is achieving the memory density necessary to adequately and cost effectively replace a computer's hard disk drive. Most modern computers require the capability for storing very large amounts of data (e.g., 250 GB or more) due to digital images, movies, and audio files. Thus, an effective solid state drive should have a memory density approaching a typical hard drive, remain cost competitive, and still fit within the constantly decreasing thickness of a laptop computer, for example.
In order to increase the performance of solid state drives, DRAM has been incorporated into the drives.
Since DRAM has an access time that is substantially less than non-volatile memory, the DRAM can be used to maintain translation tables and buffers that would normally be done by the slower non-volatile memory. However, the size of the DRAM is limited by the number of address and data lines available on the controller 230. Memory controllers, in order to save space on the controller, typically have a small quantity of address/data signal lines. Thus only a relatively low density DRAM can be connected to the controller. If the translation tables and other temporary data requiring DRAM requires more memory, the controller will use non-volatile memory. This impacts the performance of the solid state drive since the non-volatile memory tends to be slower in both reading and writing of data.
For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below that will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the present specification, there is a need in the art for a way to control both non-volatile and volatile memory in a solid state storage device while using larger volatile memory devices.
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The memory array is comprised of an array of non-volatile memory cells 301 (e.g., floating gate) arranged in columns such as series strings 304, 305. Each of the cells 301 are coupled drain to source in each series string 304, 305. An access line (e.g. word line) WL0-WL31 that spans across multiple series strings 304, 305 is connected to the control gates of each memory cell in a row in order to bias the control gates of the memory cells in the row. Data lines, such as bit lines BL1, BL2 are eventually connected to sense amplifiers (not shown) that detect the state of each cell by sensing current on a particular bit line.
Each series string 304, 305 of memory cells is coupled to a source line 306 by a source select gate 316, 317 and to an individual bit line BL1, BL2 by a drain select gate 312, 313. The source select gates 316, 317 are controlled by a source select gate control line SG(S) 318 coupled to their control gates. The drain select gates 312, 313 are controlled by a drain select gate control line SG(D) 314.
Each memory cell can be programmed as a single level cell (SLC) or multilevel cell (MLC). Each cell's threshold voltage (Vt) is indicative of the data that is stored in the cell. For example, in an SLC, a Vt of 0.5V might indicate a programmed cell while a Vt of −0.5V might indicate an erased cell. The MLC may have multiple Vt windows that each indicate a different state. Multilevel cells can take advantage of the analog nature of a traditional flash cell by assigning a bit pattern to a specific voltage range stored on the cell. This technology permits the storage of two or more bits per cell, depending on the quantity of voltage ranges assigned to the cell.
The non-volatile memory device 400 includes an array 430 of non-volatile memory cells such as the floating gate memory cells that are illustrated in
The memory array 430 can be organized into memory blocks. The quantity of memory blocks is typically determined by the size of the memory device (i.e., 512 MB, 1 GB). In one embodiment, each memory block is organized into 64 pages.
Address buffer circuitry 440 is provided to latch address signals provided through the I/O circuitry 460. Address signals are received and decoded by a row decoder 444 and a column decoder 446 to access the memory array 430. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, with the benefit of the present description, that the number of address input connections depends on the density and architecture of the memory array 430. That is, the number of addresses increases with both increased memory cell counts and increased bank and block counts. Data is also input and output through the I/O circuitry 460 based on the timing of the control signals 472.
The non-volatile memory device 400 reads data in the memory array 430 by sensing voltage or current changes in the memory array columns using sense amplifier circuitry 450. The sense amplifier circuitry 450, in one embodiment, is coupled to read and latch a row of data from the memory array 430. Data input and output buffer circuitry 460 is included for bidirectional data communication as well as address communication over a plurality of data connections 462 with an external controller. Write circuitry 455 is provided to write data to the memory array.
The memory control circuitry 470 decodes signals provided on control bus 472 from an external controller. These signals can include read/write (R/
The non-volatile memory device 400 communicates with an external controller over a channel 490. In one embodiment, the channel 490 is comprised of the memory address, data, and control signals between the external controller and the memory device 400. The embodiment of
The embodiment of
In this embodiment, two of the controller's memory communication channels 640, 641, normally used for communication with the non-volatile memories, are instead used to communicate with an expansion DRAM bank 601 that is separate and independent from the primary DRAM bank 602. This provides improved bandwidth as well as additional performance due to the locality of many of the DRAM operations now having twice as many DRAM pages.
Referring to
The primary DRAM sequencer 621 is a DRAM control circuit that is responsible for generating the timing and commands necessary for operation of the memory device 602. For example, the primary DRAM sequencer 621 can generate the read/write control signals as well as the refresh signals necessary for proper DRAM operation.
A secondary DRAM sequencer 620 is used for essentially the same functions as the primary DRAM sequencer 621. However, the secondary DRAM sequencer 620 is responsible for generating the control signals necessary for proper operation of the expansion DRAM device 601.
Two of the non-volatile memory sequencers 630, 631 are shown coupled to a multiplexer 612. The non-volatile memory sequencers 630, 631 are non-volatile memory control circuits that generate the timing and commands necessary for operation of the non-volatile memory devices. The non-volatile memory sequencers 603 control an access process to write and/or read the memory devices on each memory communication channel 650. For example, the non-volatile memory sequencers 630, 631 can generate the control signals that control the select gate drain and select gate source transistors as described with reference to
Two non-volatile memory sequencers 630, 631 are shown in
The multiplexer 612, in response to a select signal, is responsible for selecting which of the circuits attached to its inputs are output to the various memory communication channels 640, 641, 650 of the solid state storage device controller 600. The select signal is generated by a CPU 610 that stores a select signal (e.g., bit or bits) in a register 611. The CPU 610 generates the select signal in response to data input over the host interface. For example, if an access is made by an external system to one of the memory communication channels 650 with the non-volatile memory, the CPU generates and stores a select signal that selects the appropriate channel 650 through the multiplexer 612. If the CPU is executing an algorithm that requires updating translation tables that are stored in the expansion DRAM device 601, the CPU 610 generates and stores a select signal that causes the multiplexer 612 to select the secondary DRAM sequencer 620 to be output so that the expansion DRAM device 601 can be accessed.
The controller 600 is additionally configured with a host interface 651 over which the controller 600 communicates with external devices/systems such as computers and cameras. The host interface 651 can be parallel ATA, SATA, SAS, PCIe, Fiber Channel, SCSI, Gigabit Ethernet, or some other communication standard.
The expansion DRAM device 601 is coupled to the controller 600 over two of the communication channels 640, 641 that are normally used for communication with the non-volatile memory devices. The two channels 640, 641 are coupled to the address/command bus 640 and the data bus 641 of the DRAM device 601.
If the expansion DRAM device 601 is present, it is used to store additional translation tables and for additional data buffering. Typical uses for the primary DRAM and the expansion DRAM include: transfer from non-volatile memory to DRAM during a solid state storage device read operation, transfer from DRAM to non-volatile memory on a solid state storage device write operation, error correction operations on read data, translation table read (allowing a logical drive address to map to any physical non-volatile memory address), data collection read operation from non-volatile memory, data collection write operation to non-volatile memory, static wear-leveling, translation table update due to data collection operations or static wear-leveling, and translation table write operations to non-volatile memory. These are only an illustration of the possible functions that use the primary and expansion DRAMs.
The above-described elements of the solid state storage device memory controller of
The address maps of
The solid state storage device controller 800 of
A non-volatile memory sequencer 804 generates the non-volatile memory control signals to write and/or read the memory devices on each memory communications channel 810 that is coupled to at least one non-volatile memory device. For example, the non-volatile memory sequencer 804 can generate the control signals that control the select gate drain and select gate source transistors as described with reference to
Both the DRAM sequencer 803 and the non-volatile memory sequencer 804 are input to a multiplexer 805 that selects between the two sequencers 803, 804 in response to the select signal. As in the previous embodiment of
In the embodiment of
The above-described elements of the solid state storage device memory controller of
The address maps of
In this embodiment, with the non-volatile memory mode selected, the communication channels 650 are dedicated only to the non-volatile memory devices of each channel. The secondary DRAM sequencer 620 is still present but is not being used without the extra expansion DRAM installed.
The selection of the different modes (e.g., DRAM expansion mode; non-volatile memory mode) for the above-described embodiments can be performed by a hardwired mode selection input 1000 for the solid state storage device controller as illustrated in
In summary, one or more embodiments provide a solid state storage device controller with the capability to operate in both an expansion mode and a non-expansion memory mode. The expansion mode uses one or more memory communication channels, normally used for non-volatile memory communication, to communicate with an expansion DRAM device. The solid state storage device could be a solid state drive (SSD) used in computers to replace the magnetic hard drive.
Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement that is calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. Many adaptations of the invention will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, this application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the invention. It is manifestly intended that this invention be limited only by the following claims and equivalents thereof.
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